Our visit to Host City 2025 earlier this month was a great opportunity to gain insights into where festivals, live entertainment and major events are heading. The lines between music and sport continue to blur with both sectors now leaning on and learning from each other more than ever. The conversations around innovation, workforce experience and sustainability echoed many of the operational realities we see daily across tours, festivals and large-scale productions.
Our CEO, Bonnie May joined a panel discussion on Innovations in Major Events alongside Max Cobb, International Biathlon Union; Paul Bush OBE, Tour de France Grand Depart 2027 and chaired by Sarah Lewis OBE OLY, GB Olympians Association. Bonnie was able to share how catering teams adapt in fast-moving environments. With short lead times and evolving crew requirements, innovation often sits within the more practical elements. Where we’ve been able to make the difference is in smarter sourcing, stronger local partnerships and leaving a legacy of skills and employment. It was good to see that perspective recognised within a wider discussion on industry change.
Several sessions reinforced how central workforce experience has become. Whether in sport or entertainment, the quality of delivery is closely tied to how teams are supported behind the scenes. Looking ahead to the Invictus Games, Grand Depart 2027 and UEFA 2028 showed how host cities are prioritising community impact, authenticity and cultural connection. These themes translate directly into our world, where crew catering is a core part of how productions run smoothly and safely.
It was also a welcome opportunity to reconnect with Harvey Goldsmith, whose no nonsense approach really resonated with the audience. He and Bonnie shared a lovely moment having not seen each other for a while.
Looking ahead, the US will be a major focus for the industry over the next decade. With large-scale events accelerating across sport, culture and entertainment, there is a clear role for experienced providers capable of supporting complex touring and production schedules. Host City underlined how aligned the global market has become in its priorities. Moving forward we need to collaborate early, smarter planning and delivery models will ensure that we leave a sustainable and tangible legacy.
